North American P-51D vs Bell AH-1 Cobra
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
North American P-51D
- For sale now
- 1
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 1
- Model years available
- 1944–1944
Bell AH-1 Cobra
- For sale now
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 1
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | North American P-51D | Bell AH-1 Cobra |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 19 | — |
| Serious | 1 | — |
| Fatal | 8 | — |
| Fatalities | 13 | — |
| % Fatal | 42% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | North American P-51D | Bell AH-1 Cobra |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $3,400,000 | $2,200,000 |
| Category | Warbirds | Warbirds |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | — |
| Cruise Speed | 315 kts (583 km/h) | 140 kts (259 km/h) |
| Range | 1,434 nm (2,656 km) | 310 nm (574 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,100 lbs (5,489 kg) | 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | — |
Which Should You Buy: North American P-51D or Bell AH-1 Cobra?
Pick the P-51D if…
- Faster cruise — 315 kts vs 140 kts.
- Longer range — 1434 nm vs 310 nm.
Pick the AH-1 Cobra if…
- Budget matters — from $2,200,000 vs $3,400,000, you save ~$1,200,000.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, North American P-51D or Bell AH-1 Cobra?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The P-51D cruises at 315 kts with 1,434 nm range.
The AH-1 Cobra cruises at 140 kts with 310 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
North American P-51D: from $3,400,000.
Bell AH-1 Cobra: from $2,200,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between North American P-51D and Bell AH-1 Cobra?
Cruise: 315 vs 140 kts.
Range: 1434 vs 310 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
P-51D: 1 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data